i was wondering about the closures to these wildlife areas. i've read that the main gates (watt canyon and robinson canyon) are closed to motorized and non-motorized traffic until may 1. does this mean that the entire area is closed until may 1, along with other roads leading in other parts of the area, or are they just thetwo main gates?i was trying to get out anddo some turkey scouting but sounds like the entire area is closedto all acess.thanks, also does anyone know what the snow level is looking like around those areas?

Those roads are closed seasonally to protect them from damage that vehicles would cause. You can still walk in anywhere you want. I believe there is a map available from the WDFW that shows what roads are open and what roads are closed. Give the Yakima WDFW office a call.

Like bdan said, you can still walk or bike, they dont want you bothering the elk and deer during the winter with motorized vehicles. They have opened the gates early the last two years. Seems like right before turkey season they open them which is good so i can get to my spot.

Isn't that something, the seasonal road closures that is? It is ok for us to go in and KILL the amimals durring hunting season (the ultimate disturbance) but if you want to recreate there they say that is too much of a disturbance to the animals.

If it is to limit damage to roads in the wet season I understand but the disturbance issue I do not.

Both reasons are good reasons. I looked at WDFW's website last night and they say it is for the elk, but I know if it wasn't for the elk, it would be for the roads. Many of the roads in there do not have any rock, or very little, and driving on them in the winter and spring can do a lot of damage. I'd rather the WDFW be spending money on wildlife habitat or enforcement than fixing roads damaged from people driving on them when they shouldn't be. Also, it is best to disturb wildlife as little as possible during the winter when they are under a lot of stress, and keeping motorized vehicles out is a good way to do that. Don't be putting the WDFW down when they do things right!